Medical Physics applies physics concepts, theories and methods to
medicine. Primary applications include diagnostic imaging and oncology
(cancer).  In this talk, I will discuss two studies related to the early
detection of cancers and the characterization of tumours.  It is well
established that the effectiveness of  treatment is highly dependent on
the stage at which the tumour is treated, making early detection essential
for an improved prognosis.  I will discuss the potential of metabonomics
for this task.  Second, I will introduce DCE-MRI and describe how this
technique can provide information about tumour vasculature.  One
limitation, however, is acquiring an accurate measure of the plasma
concentration of contrast agent in a supplying vessel.  I will present one
method for overcoming this obstacle.  To conclude the presentation, I will
overview treatment options available through radiation therapy, and
introduce the post treatment applications for metabolomics and DCE-MRI.